British Airways, the United Kingdom's esteemed flag carrier, boasts over a century of connecting Britain with the global community. Pioneering the world's first international scheduled air service, the airline maintains a rich legacy of innovation and excellence. This enduring spirit is shared across its diverse workforce, partners, and the millions of passengers served annually. At British Airways, a career transcends traditional boundaries, offering unparalleled opportunities for those inspired to achieve greatness and bring their ambition to work every day. The sky is never the limit.
British Airways invites highly skilled and dedicated aviators to join its esteemed team as a Direct Entry Pilot – First Officer, operating within its long-haul fleets. This pivotal role places the customer at the forefront, requiring a steadfast commitment to delivering an exceptional flight experience for every passenger. Successful candidates will navigate the globe with world-class precision, embracing the daily challenges inherent in a demanding yet exhilarating commercial pilot career, consistently performing to the highest industry standards.
A career with British Airways offers an open and dynamic trajectory. First Officers initially assigned to one of the four long-haul fleets will have opportunities to transfer to other long-haul fleets or to the short-haul fleet, paving the way for command progression to Captain. Beyond the cockpit, a vast array of non-flying roles are available, including positions in pilot training, recruitment, and other operational areas, fostering continuous professional and personal development. British Airways prioritizes the well-being and lifestyle of its pilots, providing diverse opportunities within the organization.
Prospective candidates must demonstrate a strong foundation of aviation experience and hold the requisite licences. Applicants are required to possess a UK Part-FCL ATPL(A) or have accumulated over 1500 hours total flight time with the eligibility to upgrade to an ATPL(A). Alternatively, candidates holding an EASA licence must satisfy the "Third Country CPL and ATPL licence conversion requirements" as stipulated by the UK CAA (routes 3, 4, 5, or 6).
For consideration within the long-haul fleets, applicants must have accrued more than 1500 hours of flight time at the point of application submission. This must include a minimum of 500 hours or 100 sectors on an aircraft type suitable for Zero Flight Time Training (ZFTT), with currency on this type within the preceding 12 months. Any necessary ATPL upgrade will be facilitated during the type rating process.
Job offers will primarily be extended for positions on the Boeing 777 fleet, operating from both London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Boeing 777 pilots will also operate the Boeing 777X upon its entry into service. A limited number of vacancies may be available on other fleets, with preference given to candidates holding a current rating on the specific aircraft type. Transfers to alternative fleets are managed via an internal system and awarded based on seniority. For 777 LGW flights, hotel accommodation can be requested and provided the day prior to duty, along with a day room post-landing if the flight duty period exceeds 8 hours and is not a positioning sector.
The selection process includes various stages. Candidates who are unsuccessful at initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment centre stages may reapply after 6 months from their most recent assessment date. Those unsuccessful at the simulator (SIM) stage must observe a 12-month reapplication period. Applicants may only apply to one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) concurrently. Unsuccessful candidates in one campaign are subject to the specified re-apply period across all three airlines.
Long-haul suitability will be rigorously assessed during the simulator evaluation. Successful candidates will be placed into a hold pool, receiving a maximum of two job offers. Declining a second job offer will result in removal from the hold pool, necessitating a 12-month wait and completion of the entire selection process for reapplication.
In addition to an enriching career path, British Airways provides a competitive reward and benefits package. Colleagues are valued for their contributions, receiving comprehensive benefits that extend beyond salary. These include:
British Airways is an equal opportunities employer, profoundly valuing diversity. The airline is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that recognizes and celebrates the unique originality, creativity, and identity each colleague brings. Applications are encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds as British Airways strives to become a 'Better BA'.